Study Discovers: Why Zebra Have Black and White Stripes?

What would you say if a child asks you why zebra have stripes? The question will certainly make you speechless for a few seconds. It seems like a recent research has solved your problem.

Previously, several theories proposed that function of zebra stripes is to repel insects and to get rid of predators. However, a latest research uncovers that black and white stripe of zebra keeps them cool from the scorching heat of Africa

A group of U.S experts collaborated with German scientists in order to figure out the reason behind the zebra stripes. They closely examined 29 different zebras from all around the globe. They accumulated the data related to the environment conditions such as rainfall, vegetation of those places.

Later on, scientists concluded that the ecological factors are responsible for the zebra stripes. They discovered that two environment features are directly linked to the stripes of zebra. The temperature of the countries is the major cause of the thickness and thinness of these stripes. Hence, the zebras that live in relatively hot areas of Africa have more stripes as compared to the zebras of cooler areas.

Brenda Larison, the lead researcher reported that zebras in seasonal cold areas are less stripy than the ones who are in warmer regions.

The research printed in Journal Royal Society Open Sciences. It was funded by National Geographic Society.

About Carol Harper

Carol Harper began her career as a screenwriter before turning to journalism. Before earning her Bachelor of Arts with a major in Creative Writing, Carol travelled across Europe and Asia to find both herself and inspiration. She enjoys covering health & science topics.